Former prime minister Justin Trudeau made an appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he spoke about the importance of soft power and restraint in global geopolitics.
During his remarks, Trudeau emphasized Canada’s long-standing approach of diplomacy over coercion, drawing applause when he noted that Canada does not interfere in other countries’ affairs to secure resources. Sitting in the front row was his partner, pop star Katy Perry, who smiled as Trudeau spoke.
Trudeau also dismissed suggestions by U.S. President Donald Trump that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, saying Canadians have made their views on the matter unmistakably clear.
After the talk, Trudeau and Perry left the venue without commenting to Canadian media gathered outside.
The annual forum has brought together global political and business leaders to discuss economic development and international affairs. Trump’s expected arrival later this week — and his stated ambition to annex Greenland — is anticipated to dominate much of the discussion in Davos.